Computer Support Specialist

The Computer Support Specialist degree is designed for full-time or part-time students who wish to prepare for the positions of Help Desk Technician, Technical Support Specialist and Customer Service Representative. This occupational group provides technical assistance, support, and advice to customers and users.

The degree prepares graduates by developing in them skills ranging from the technical and computer-related to the “people” skills of verbal and written communications, telephone skills, tact, good manners, and logical problem diagnosis and solution. The degree incorporates preparation for the certification examinations for either CompTIA (Computer Technical Industry Association) A+ or MOUS (Microsoft Office User Specialist). A range of general education courses in the program enrich professional skills.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Upon successful completion of all program requirements, graduates will be able to:

Understand the psychology of the workplace, including attendance, punctuality, initiative, teamwork, privacy, discrimination issues, due process, safety, employee/employer conflict, job descriptions and techniques for working productively with people of diverse cultures and backgrounds

Apply customer service and end-user support principles, including communication skills, telephone etiquette, and courtesy when dealing with
customers and individuals lacking a technical background

Understand career paths in the computer support field

Demonstrate a working knowledge of the Internet that includes effective strategies for online research and correct citation of internet based resources

Describe the features and functions of the major categories of applications software (word packaging, database, spreadsheet, presentation, e-mail, browsers, etc.)

Demonstrate proficiency in installing and configuring software, uninstalling operating system software, configuring software for accessibility by disabled individuals, installing and configuring applications software upgrades, and modifying an operating system

Communicate effectively with clients, verbally and in writing

Understand and apply mathematical and scientific reasoning in solving problems and think critically

FIRST SEMESTER(15 Credits)

CREDITS

† CSA* 105

Introduction to Software Applications

3

CSC* 101

Introduction to Computers

3

† ENG* 101

Composition

3

† MAT* 104

Quantway OR Higher

3

CSA* 163

The Internet

3

SECOND SEMESTER(15 Credits)

CREDITS

CST* 231
† CST 171

Data Communications & Networking I OR
LAN System Management

3

† CST* 120

Introduction to Operating Systems

3

COM* 101
COM* 105
† COM* 173

Intro to Mass Communication OR
Intro. to Visual Communication OR
Public Speaking

3

† ENG* 102

Literature and Composition

3

† PSY* 111
† SOC* 101

General Psychology I OR
Principles of Sociology

3

THIRD SEMESTER(15 Credits)

CREDITS

† CSA* 205

Advanced Applications

3

CST* 150

Web Design &amp; Development I

3

___ ___

Fine Arts Elective

3

___ ___

CSA*, CSC*, or CST* Elective

3

† ___ ___

Humanities Elective

3

FOURTH SEMESTER(15 Credits)

CREDITS

† CST* 125

Help Desk Concepts

3

† BBG* 294
† BMG* 202
† BMK* 123

Business Internship°° OR
Principles of Management OR
Principles of Customer Service